The Importance of an Online Presence for Your Home

Did you know that according to the 2010 National Association of Realtors profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 89 % of people used the internet as on one of the information sources in their home search process?

That amazing statistic alone should convince you that while marketing your home you should not neglect the internet. But many don't know exactly how to go about using the valuable tool of internet marketing.

At the bare minimum, if your home is listed by a REALTOR® it will most likely be placed in the multiple listing service. Many multiple listing services participate in what's called an IDX, enabling sellers, if they so choose, to share their listing with other websites. Sellers should be sure their property is described, not only to ensure interest in the viewer, but incorporating keywords that a online search might use. For example, stay away from abbreviations, such as BDR for bedrooms. While everyone knows what the “3 BDR” stands for, it might be missed when “3 Bedroom Home” is typed in as a search command in Google or other search engine. Along with keywords in the description of your multiple listing, pictures are something you should pay close attention to. You only have one chance to make a first impression and often, buyers make an impression by checking out on-line photos of your home.

Your internet marketing can go above and beyond just the Multiple Listing Service with tools such as single property websites, blogging, Craig's List, YouTube and many others. The more sites your property is listed with, the more chances a home buyer doing an on-line search will see your home. With each venue, keep in mind optimization, meaning, make sure keywords are used. Also, make sure there is adequate contact information in case the viewer wants more information or would like to schedule an appointment to see your home.

The joy of internet marketing is affordability, especially when compared to a traditional campaign such as print advertising. The downside is the competition, which is why it is vitally important that your home make the best impression in the first few seconds it is viewed on line!

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